FXTAS

Male carriers over the age of 50 have a 20-40% chance of developing Fragile X Tremor Ataxia Syndrome (FXTAS). This is a neurological condition similar to Parkinsons Disease, and may involve unsteadiness (ataxia), intention tremor (shaking) and memory problems.

Female carriers may also suffer from FXTAS, but is it less common.

Initial signs of the disorder may include difficulty writing, using utensils, pouring and walking. The symptoms progress over years or decades until many daily tasks become very difficult.

There may be a short term memory loss, anxiety, decreased sensation to touch in the lower extremities and rigidity in movement.

It is common to find these carriers mis-diagnosed as having Parkinsons disease, senile dementia or Alzheimers disease.